The activities of the National Fund’s pavilion at the 2025 Abu Dhabi International Book Fair commenced yesterday, attracting a noteworthy presence of youth, intellectuals, and attendees, under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence and Chairman of the National Fund. The theme of the pavilion is “A Permanent and Sustainable National Identity.”
This year’s pavilion highlights the significance of the Arabic language as a crucial component of national identity, which is fundamental to the Fund’s efforts to foster a future rooted in pride and allegiance to the authentic Emirati values, coinciding with the UAE’s celebration of the “Year of Community.”
The National Fund has organized a wide array of activities and programs over a span of ten days, featuring cultural and educational events, workshops aimed at youth and creatives, as well as open dialogue platforms that share inspiring Emirati experiences contributing to strengthening national identity among all.
A session titled “Youth and National Identity” witnessed the participation of youth council leaders from across the UAE, who presented an inspiring youth perspective on how national identity motivates young people to leverage their potential for building a pioneering future for the Emirates. The pavilion also featured workshops on Arabic calligraphy and Emirati heritage, alongside discussion panels.
Yasser Al Qaqawi, Director General of the National Fund, expressed that the Fund’s participation in the fair serves as an opportunity to showcase its initiatives and efforts to a diverse audience of leaders, thinkers, and youths. He emphasized the vital role of culture and knowledge in shaping individuals and communities.
He noted that this participation aims to deepen awareness of the Arabic language as a tool for enhancing Emirati identity, while shining a light on aspects of identity associated with heritage, societal values, and allegiance to the homeland and leadership through numerous daily events and sessions.
Al Qaqawi pointed out that the directives of His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan focus on the necessity of making national identity a daily practice through pride in one’s homeland, respect for its symbols, and positive contributions to its development. He affirmed that the Fund’s involvement in this prominent cultural and educational event represents an essential step towards achieving this vision.
The National Fund’s pavilion organized a distinguished panel discussion titled “Youth and National Identity,” moderated by media personality Rashid Al Bloushi. It featured a select group of young speakers who shared their experiences and ideas on enhancing national identity across various fields.
The pavilion also hosted a conversation session addressing “Youth and National Identity,” which saw significant attendance from culturally engaged youth and thought leaders. Facilitated by Rashid Al Bloushi, the session explored multiple aspects of the vital relationship between Emirati youth and their national identity.
Nasser Al Harmozi discussed “Reading as a Bridge to Identity and Belonging,” emphasizing the fundamental role reading plays in instilling national identity concepts among the youth. He asserted that reading transcends a mere hobby, serving as an effective tool for reinforcing pride in one’s homeland and cited examples of youth initiatives aimed at promoting national culture, highlighting the need to support these efforts for sustainable national awareness.
Alia Hassan Al Shamsi addressed the necessity for Emirati youth to dive into rare scientific fields, stressing the importance of encouraging young people to explore new and significant disciplines, such as space law and space sciences. She noted that education and empowerment are crucial elements for enhancing the youth’s role in sectors that shape the future and embed Emirati identity within global scientific and knowledge arenas.
Ghaliah Al Mansouri discussed “Traditional Arts as a Contemporary Means to Enhance National Belonging,” showcasing the experience of “Knaaz Studio” in transforming traditional arts into modern products that bear a distinctive Emirati signature. She asserted that involving youth in this creative sphere fosters a sense of belonging while connecting the past to the present in a contemporary way that resonates with the new generation.
The session delved into significant discussions about entrepreneurship, where Ahmad Al Tamimi spoke about “Entrepreneurship as a Platform for Manifesting National Identity,” noting that numerous youth projects originate from the principles of Emirati identity and values. He highlighted the “Maqta Podcast” initiative as a platform designed to document inspiring success stories of local youth, epitomizing the spirit of challenge and belonging.
Imran bin Shaikhan discussed the role of youth in ensuring the success of major national events, arguing that their participation in such activities reinforces values of loyalty and belonging, providing them opportunities to showcase their identity to the world.
The session garnered significant engagement from the audience, praising the topics discussed and acknowledging the importance of these conversations amid the global challenges requiring nations to cling to their authentic identities. Participants stressed the need for continued gatherings that center youth in the projects shaping the future and safeguarding national identity.
The pavilion also witnessed the graduation of the first batch from the Imagination Cup program for technological innovation and artificial intelligence, under the patronage and presence of His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, with participation from over 1,500 students from various Emirates.
The National Fund will honor 450 outstanding graduates from the program, which was carried out in collaboration with Microsoft. Students from schools and universities can look forward to numerous activities, workshops, and opportunities aimed at supporting and empowering Emiratis across various fields of identity and national pride.